Are you tired of store-bought Cinnamon Rolls that disappoint? Discover the secret to bakery-fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls with our foolproof recipe.
Prep time: 25 minutes | Active time: 30 minutes | Total time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Yields: 12-16 rolls | Difficulty: Intermediate
Table of Contents
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create the perfect homemade cinnamon rolls. Don’t forget to adjust portions if you’re making fewer or more rolls.
- For the Dough:
- 2¼ cups (500g) of all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) milk, warmed to 110°F (45°C)
- 1/3 cup (70g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons (45g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (200g) brown sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- For the Topping:
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup (100g) granulated sugar for sprinkles
Substitutions: For a softer texture, substitute 1/2 cup all-purpose flour with cake flour. You can also use 1 cup coconut milk for a dairy-free option. For the filling, maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Timing
Creating the perfect cinnamon rolls takes time, but the results are worth it. Here’s the complete timeline:
Step
Time
Dough Preparation & Rising
1 hour 15 minutes
Filling Preparation
10 minutes
Assembly & Second Rise
1 hour
Baking
15-18 minutes
Cooling
15 minutes
Time-saving tip: Make the dough the night before and bake it in the morning for an easy, hassle-free breakfast. This approach cuts down about 30 minutes of active prep time without compromising on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy or bubbly.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the melted butter, eggs, 3 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and salt to the foamy yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour, about 2 cups at a time, mixing until just combined.
Pro tip: Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make your cinnamon rolls tough. Mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if it’s too sticky, but don’t add too much as this will make your rolls dense.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, until doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon until creamy. Set aside.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-butter filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border on the edges.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
Fold the dough over the filling, then roll it tightly from the long edge, sealing the seams as you go. A bench scraper can help with sealing if needed. Continue rolling until you have a compact cylinder, then slice into 1-inch rounds.
Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife or baker’s wire for clean cuts—this helps maintain the shape and ensures even baking.
Step 8: Second Rise
Place the rolls on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between them. Cover and let rise for 20-30 minutes.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops with the egg mixture, sprinkle with sugar, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 10: Serve and Store
Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with your favorite coffee or tea.
Quick cooling tip: If you need to serve immediately, place rolls in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 10 minutes to keep them warm without getting soggy.
Nutritional Information
Each cinnamon roll contains approximately:
Calories: 380 kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 17g
Sugar: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 250mg
Nutrition note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion size. These values are estimates and should be considered as approximate guidelines.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Savor your favorite treat guilt-free by making these simple adjustments:
1. Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
2. Lower-Carbohydrate Swap: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional wheat flour. Note that these flours require different liquid ratios, so you may need to experiment.
3. Sweetener Alternatives: Try using pure maple syrup instead of some of the brown sugar in both the dough and filling. A 1:1 maple syrup to sugar substitution works well.
4. Reduced Butter: Use half the amount of butter and replace with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt for a healthier fat profile.
5. Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine alternative. Use almond milk instead of regular milk, adjusting liquid amounts as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your homemade cinnamon rolls with these creative pairings:
Coffee Pairings: Nothing complements cinnamon rolls like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Try a French press, pour-over, or even a specialty latte from your favorite local café.
Temperature Variations: Serve some warm from the oven and others warmed in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for a perfect breakfast spread.
Dip Ideas: Create a vanilla bean glaze or make instant coffee cinnamon dip by combining cooled rolls with strong brewed coffee and brown sugar.
Savory Option: Don’t stop at breakfast! These rolls make an incredible base for grilled cheese sandwiches with caramelized onions and bacon.
Seasonal Twists: In the fall, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds. During the holidays, add a sprinkle of red hots or mini chocolate chips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These common pitfalls can ruin your cinnamon roll experience:
Mistake #1: Improper Dough Temperature
If your dough doesn’t rise, check the water temperature. It should be around 110°F (45°C). Too hot kills the yeast, too cool slows it down significantly.
Mistake #2: Overproofing
Rolling the dough too soon after the second rise can make your rolls dense. Always wait the full 20-30 minutes for a proper rise.
Mistake #3: Inconsistent Filling
If your cinnamon rolls have too much cinnamon in some and too little in others, spread the filling evenly. Use an offset spatula for precision.
Mistake #4: Not Letting Rolls Rest
Baking warm rolls immediately causes them to collapse. Always let them rest at least 5 minutes after baking.
Mistake #5: Temperature Shock
When cutting rolls, do it on a counter at room temperature. Cutting cold dough makes it crumbly, while warm dough is too soft.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Keep your delicious cinnamon rolls fresh as long as possible:
Room Temperature Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best on the first day.
Refrigeration: Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cold temperature slows yeast activity and keeps them fresh longer.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake and cool rolls completely, then flash freeze on baking sheets before transferring to freezer bags. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Refresh Technique: To refresh frozen rolls, microwave for 20 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes.
Conclusion
Creating perfect homemade cinnamon rolls requires patience and technique, but the results are worth it. With this recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy bakery-quality rolls in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. The key is practice and attention to detail. Experiment with different cinnamon-to-butter ratios to find your perfect balance.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cinnamon rolls? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below!
For more baking inspiration, explore our collection of Easy Cinnamon Roll Recipe
